The Saluki Dog

The Saluki is a Sighthound that originates from the Middle East. It is one of the oldest breed of dogs and is depicted in carvings of early civilizations such as that of “Sumerian Empire” of Mesopotamia dating back to 7000 BC. It’s names originates from Saluq, an ancient city in Arabia.

It is a dog of considerable size with a lean body built for speed and endurance and is believed to share a common ancestor with the Pharaoh hound. The Saluki Hound is also known by the other names of the Gazelle Hound and the Persian Greyhound.
It was originally bred to hunt hawks, hare, foxes, wolves and gazelle. They often hunted in tandem with falcons which locate the prey and for the dogs to run down.

This dog was declared “sacred ” by the Muslim religion whilst all other dogs were “unclean”. Salukis were not allowed to breed with non-Salukis, which explains their purity throughout the centuries.

The nomadic existence of the Bedouin owners of the Saluki’s ensured the spread of the breed throughout North Africa, the Middle East and Egypt. The terrain of the Saluki varies from the desert of the Sahara to colder, mountainous areas.

The Egyptian pharaohs were known to keep the ancestors of this dog. References to the Saluki’s’s ancestors appear as hieroglyphics and are also found engraved in cuneiform ( written in wedge-shaped characters) on ancient pillars and tablets.

The breed had been occasionally imported to England before 1840, however there was no serious interest until the Hon. Florence Amherst imported a breeding pair of Salukis from Lower Egypt in 1895 and began working to popularize the breed. The Saluki was recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1928.

English Salukis were exported to many countries, but by the mid-1930s, interest slackened, and with the outbreak of World War II, breeding and show activities almost entirely stopped. The number of litters was minimal – just enough to keep the breed alive. Food rationing reserved all edible meat for humans and rather than see their beloved Salukis starve or perhaps killed by bombs, some owners euthanized entire kennels. A small number of Saluki kennels survived the war, and along with fresh imports belonging to a second wave of soldiers returning from the Middle East, the slow process of re-establishing the breed began again.

Unique Dog Breeds You May Never Come Across

You will see many dog breeds in your life, but there are some unique breeds you may never see. While some of these breeds have similar traits to dogs we are familiar with, others look more exotic. Regardless of their sizes and shapes, these unique dog breeds are so cute. Enjoy reading about and looking at these pups and don’t hide your smile!

Swedish Vallhund



In 1942, the Swedish Vallhund almost became extinct in Sweden, but a breeding program started to save them. These dogs can capture small predators like rodents, herd cattle, and guard the house. Due to their perfect temper and love of their owners they are capable of being good pets. They are extremely energetic and they need lots of exercise. (see What to consider when looking for a dog) 

Bedlington Terrier



The first time I saw this dog breed, I thought it was a lamb, but it wasn’t! Bedlington Terrier puppies have dark coats that fade with age. This unique dog breed is good with kids and is easy to take care of. As long as Bedlington Terrier has his fur trimmed and gets enough exercise, he will keep his tail wagging. If you are thinking of having one, be ready for a stubborn attitude and loud barking. 

Tibetan Mastiff


Don’t think that this dog is a mastiff. The word ‘mastiff’ means ‘large dog,’ that’s why it is included in its name. Tibetan Mastiff is known as guardian and has been used to protect places, people, and herds. Since these dogs are very protective, they are not happy when their owners invite guests into their house. Again, these dogs require some training. 


Catalburun



Oh God! I’ve never seen anything so cute, and you? Look, this dog has a split nose! While it looks unique, it also works excellent and gives the Catalburun a very strong sense of smell. That’s why they’re great hunters and they’re able to track well. This unique dog breed is mostly seen in Turkey and is not known in other countries.


Mudi


 
This pup is really cute! This is a herding breed that comes from Hungary. Mudi is very energetic. They are expected to live from 13 to 14 years and weigh 18 and 29 pounds. Mudi comes in a variety of different colors, which are all equally adorable!






Catahoula Cur



This dog can be very noisy and might chew up your furniture, especially if they don’t get enough attention from you. Catahoula Cur was originally used for herding and once lived in swamps to round up cattle and pigs. This dog needs a truly dominant owner that can teach it the difference between wrong and right.




Schipperke



These dogs are from Belgium, and they are expected to live from 13 to 15 years. Although they are so adorable, they are known to cause some troubles. Sometimes called ‘the little black devil, these doggies like to disobey their owners and chase other animals. They can be very aggressive and must be kept away from other animals. They are not good for the weak-willed and they require a lot of training.


Azawakh


The Azawakh is a sight hound dog breed that is rare outside of its native West Africa. Azawakh is found in a great variety of colors such as grizzle, red, blue fawn, and, rarely, black and blue. Renowned for its agile and cat-like gait, these dogs are timid by nature, but friendly and very affectionate. The breed is used to hunt gazelle and other fleet animals.



Thai Ridgeback



An ancient dog breed, the Thai Ridgeback is also renowned as Mah Thai Lang Ahn. I love this breed and I think it’s the most unique and beautiful dog breed. The Thai Ridgeback has a line of hair running along the back in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. These beautiful, strong-willed and powerful dogs are usually used as livestock guardians. Thai Ridgeback is a very intelligent breed. This dog is best kept by a consistent owner who has a good understanding of dog behavior.

Must Common Cat Myths

Cats have nine lives 

Fact: The myth most likely originated from Egyptian gods and religions, where sun god Atum-Ra, one of the Ennead, or the Nine would assume the form of the cat when visiting the underworld. Throughout the ages, cats continued to be considered magical and otherworldly, and their resilience in surviving falls from high places and long confinements without sustenance continue to amaze us. 

 

Pregnant women cannot live with cats

Fact: While toxoplasmosis is a risk for fetuses, a woman is more likely to catch it from handling raw meat or digging in the garden than from her cats. Cat guardians can protect themselves from cat-related exposure by emptying the litter box daily, having someone else clean the litter box or wearing rubber gloves and a mask if the litter box task can’t be foisted onto anyone else.

Cats steal the breath of babies

Fact: Cats are heat-and comfort-seekers. Curling up next to a newborn in a crib meets both of these needs. However, if the cat chooses to press up against the face of a bundled infant who is too young to turn away on her own, her breathing may be hampered. Keep cats out of the nursery at naptime/bedtime.

 

Cats purr only when happy

Fact: Purring is one of the first sounds kittens can make. They can purr by the time they are 48 hours old. While nursing, both mom and kittens can be heard to purr. But while purring is often heard at times of contentment, cats also purr when in pain and in the throes of death.

 

Cats hate water

Fact: While most cats hate baths, many find running water fascinating and spend time pawing at dripping faucets or demanding their guardians turn on the water for a fresh, cool drink. Kittens, in particular, find sinks and showers a source of amusement, although for most the thrill lessens with age. One breed, the Turkish Van, is nicknamed “the swimming cat” for its swimming prowess and love of all things wet.

Cats are loners

Fact: Outdoor cats are solitary hunters, but most will choose to live in a colony near a food source. Unneutered males will roam the farthest, in search of food and females in heat. Studies of barn cats showed matrilineal groups were created by a founding female, her daughters and their kittens. When males reach approximately eighteen months of age, they leave the area and strike out on their own. The kittens of domesticated house cats are best prepared to fit into a multi-cat household when they are kept with their littermates until at least eight- to ten-weeks of age. Cats can even be friends with dogs! 

Cats always land on their feet

Fact: As a tree-climbing species, the cat’s survival depends on its ability to survive falls when possible. The feline vestibular system and vision work together with the cat’s flexible spine to allow the cat to right itself and, when there is enough time, to “parachute out” in a manner similar to the flying squirrel. While they can usually right themselves, they can still sustain serious injury to limbs, jaws and the thoracic region which may result in death.

 

Black cats are bad luck

Fact: There are nearly as many superstitions about black eats bringing luck as there are about them being harbingers of bad luck. In different cultures around the world, other colors and coat patterns are seen as lucky – or not. However, in one 2000 study of 321 patients reported in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology patients with dark-colored cats were up to four times more likely to suffer a moderate to severe allergy attack than those with light-colored cats. Researchers speculate that darker cats produce more fel d 1 allergen in their skin and saliva. So if adopters are mildly allergic to cats, it may be smart to steer them to lighter colored ones, leaving all the terrific black cats to those lucky folks with no cat allergies.

 

Cats are nocturnal

Fact: Cats are crepuscular. They are most active at dusk and dawn when prey abounds and the hunting is best. The construction of their eyes allows them to see well in low light. Cats only need 1/6 of the light humans do in order to decipher shapes. However, they cannot see in absolute darkness.

People Foods Your Dog Can Eat Too

If you want to give your dog something that is not loaded with artificial ingredients and save some money, you can try out some of these “people” foods that your dog can eat too! Remember these foods must not replace your dog’s normal food and should be fed sparingly to your dog.

Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are nutritious and cost-efficient chew treat that you can give to your dog! Sweet potatoes contain fiber, carotenoids, and vitamins that are all good for both you and your pup. However, don’t give potatoes to your dog raw, instead serve in a dog bowl cooked or mashed! And make sure you don’t add any butter or salt!

Cheese

If your dog is not lactose intolerant, it’s okay for him/her to eat cheese. Aren’t sure if your dog is lactose intolerant? Just give him/her a small piece of cheese and see your pup’s reaction. Be sure to choose low fat cheese and don’t overfeed! Cottage cheese is usually a great option.

Peanut butter

Peanut butter is another well-known “people” food that is good for your dog. I love to use peanut butter to hide yucky medicine, it works excellent! Remember it’s healthier for your dog and you as well to eat unprocessed peanut butter without added preservatives, sugar and salt. Peanut butter that contains macadamia nuts is not good for your dog, since it has a poisonous effect.

Salmon

You know that salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, that good not only for you but for your pup too. Omega-3 fatty acids help keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy and shiny and support immune system! Feed your pup cooked salmon, but not raw, or you can add salmon oil to food bowl. But be sure to remove bones from the salmon before giving it to your dog.

Yogurt

Do you like yogurt? Your pup might like it too! Yogurt is packed with vitamins, probiotics, protein, riboflavin, calcium, potassium and zinc, making it a healthy treat for your pup. Frozen yogurt is also a perfect summer treat to keep your dog feeling cool on those hot days! Avoid yogurts that are loaded with sugar, additives, and other preservatives. Plain yogurt is the best option!

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a great source of fiber and beta carotene. It helps keep the GI tract moving and aids with digestive issues. Both raw pumpkin flesh and seeds are safe for your pup to eat. Roasting plain pumpkin seeds is an easy way to have some handy treats for your dog that will last almost 3-4 weeks!

Lean meat

Sure, meat is good for your dog, but it must be lean! Beef or chicken with no visible fat and with no added seasonings or sauces will add a bit of extra protein to the diet of your dog. Lean meat is also a great source of B vitamins and amino acids. Many people think that dogs can eat raw meat, but it’s much healthier and safer to cook meat before giving it to your dog!

Watermelon

The last summer treat for your dog is watermelon! Sure other melons can be good too, but to be safe, you can feed your dog watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew and don’t give anything exotic that you may find. I also freeze some bits of watermelon and have a wonderful licking treat for my dogs to enjoy on hot days!
Before giving your dog any kind of “people” foods, check online to make sure that they aren’t toxic to your dog. Some toxic foods are grapes, chocolate, raisins, onions, yeast dough, macadamia nuts, artificial sweeteners, avocados, coffee and alcohol. What are your dog’s favorite “people” foods?

Cool Facts About Dogs Will Make You Love them Even More

There are god knows how many dog breeds in our lovely world. We just can’t go through a day and find out that there is some great doctor working on developing dog breed.

It’s just awesome to have your dog around you all the time.

What we have here are some cool facts that will make you understand and love these creatures even more.

Maybe some of you dog lovers already know these facts we are about to share with you and you are welcome to share more in the comments section bellow.

Before you go down reading these facts you need to know that DOGS ARE AWESOME!

The Newfoundland breed has webbed feet and water resistant coat

 

3 Dogs survived the Titanic sinking: 2 Pomeranians and 1 Pekingese

Paul McCartney recorded a unique whistle at the end of a song, which is audible only to dogs so his Shetland sheepdog can enjoy his music. The song is “A day in the Life”

Dogs are like humans. They have slow wave sleep and rapid eye movement

Dogs can see in the dark. It’s the tapetum lucidum membrane that allows them this

 

Bigger dogs have 60-100 heart beats per minute while smaller dog breeds have 100-140 HBPM

According to a research, dogs can detect stormy weather

Dogs sweat only through their feet pads

 

The latest research shows that 45% of the dogs enjoy sleeping in their owners’ bed

Taking Care of Your Hamster

Hamsters are funny, attractive, lively, active, clean and really easy to care for! The main thing to remember is that your hamster needs enough space to play, sleep and feed. Check out a few tips for taking care of your hamster! 

 Buy an igloo for your hamster

Your hamster needs something to sleep in, so make something in the cage or buy an igloo for your beloved pet in the pet store. I have four hamsters and I can say that they really love the igloo-shaped houses to hide in.

 

Don’t forget to feed your pet

It’s important not to forget to feed your hamster. You can feed your hamster a commercially prepared hamster-food mix twice a day and give a small supply of fresh fruits and vegetables. If you decide to give your hamster a new food, introduce it very slowly so he/she can get used to it.

Don’t forget the importance of water for your hamster

Make sure you keep your hamster supplied with clean water. Placing a bowl of water in your hamster’s cage won’t work since it can end up with pieces of food and bedding in it. So buy the type of bottles that attach to the side of the cage. And don’t forget to refill the bottle every day.

 

Give your hamster enough chew toys

Your hamster also needs to have a few chew toys for his/her teeth. All hamsters like to chew on things. There are many special chew toys in pet stores, which have been designed specifically for hamsters. Hamster toys are very important if you do not want your hamster to get bored.

Don’t bathe your hamster

Hamsters do not like water so never bathe your hamster. Hamsters always keep themselves meticulously cleaned. If you believe your hamster smell bad, then the smell is more than likely coming from the dirty cage. Make sure you always keep the hamster’s cage clean.

 

Watch where you place the cage

It is important to place your hamster’s cage out of the direct sunlight and draughts. Place it in a quiet part of your home where you’ll visit your hamster frequently. Don’t put the cage in an unheated room, garage, breezeway, or other cold places.

Your hamster needs to exercise

Hamsters are very quick and agile creatures and they need to exercise, so make sure your hamster’s cage has plenty of room to exercise. Hamsters need an exercise wheel to keep their muscles strong and healthy. When your hamster is outside of the cage, you can put him/her in a plastic hamster ball that you can buy in a local pet store.
A hamster is a fun animal to play with and it can really make exciting pet. Do you like hamsters? Do you have any other tips for taking care of a hamster? Share your thoughts, please!

Small Pets That Are Great for Kids

Having pets can be a great experience for children. Pets offer love and companionship and teach children responsibility. Small pets are great for kids because they don’t require a lot of maintenance. They don’t need to be walked or played with every day and they offer kids a chance to demonstrate how much responsibility they are willing to take on. Before going out and buying a dog or a cat, train your kids with one of these little critters. Any of these small pets would make a great companion.


Guinea Pigs

These furry critters are sometimes confused with hamsters, but guinea pigs are a totally different affair. Guinea pigs are larger and less fragile than hamsters. They are also noticeably more affectionate and sociable. Life spans are longer with guinea pigs, living anywhere from 4 to 9 years. This gives kids a great opportunity to watch their pets grow and mature and even learn tricks. Bigger cages than that of hamsters are required and a full stock of toys to keep those critters active. As with all pets, kids should be made aware of what a healthy diet is. Guinea pigs should have a steady diet that includes a good dose of vitamin C for optimum health. Kids should also be taught how to clean up after their pet to ensure a healthy and happy life for both pet and owner.

Goldfish
The most common pet for young children, goldfish can be a fun and lovely pet to keep. Kids enjoy feeding fish and watching them eat, but should be warned not to overfeed. Overfeeding has often been the demise of pet fish, so take time to explain the feeding schedule to young kids. A decent sized bowl is required and kids will love choosing the different colored rocks for the bottom as well as any plants or accessories. To keep those fish healthy, make sure to show kids how to clean the bowl properly.

Ants
There is something fascinating about watching the lives of ants. Kids will find it interesting to watch ants build their homes and go about their work as they carry food to their lair. Ant farms never go out of style and don’t require much maintenance. Ant farm kits can be purchased from pet stores and regular shopping centers and come with instructions on how to care for ants. Kids will get a kick out of using the holding pen that comes with ant farm kits to capture their new pets from the great outdoors. Watching the lives of ants can demonstrate hard work and organization. Curious kids will be delighted.

Stick Insects
These insects are delightful to observe. They have a life span of only about one year, but they are fantastic to behold. A good pet for older kids, stick insects are fragile and should be handled delicately. They can also bite, so gloves should be worn when handling these spindly fellows. The bright side is, no fur, no feathers and all fun.

Rabbits 
Soft and furry rabbit is a great pet for your children. The large selection of rabbit breeds (there are over 40 breeds) make rabbits a popular kids’ pet. Polish, Dutch and Holland Lops are among the most popular bunny breeds, and some larger bunny breeds such as the Flemish Giant are more tolerant of handling. Since rabbits generally live for about 10 years, getting a pet rabbit is a very important commitment. Rabbits are social animals so it’s better to buy a few rabbits, but make sure that all rabbits are spayed or neutered to avoid unintended breeding. Keep in mind that rabbits don’t like to be picked up or held and incorrect handling can result in the nails of a rabbit scratching a kid, or a rabbit’s legs or back being broken or injured. 
Rabbits don’t need baths because they groom themselves just like cats, but they require regular nail trims. A rabbit with maloccluded teeth need regular tooth trims done only by a veterinarian. Long-haired rabbits usually require everyday brushing. Rabbits must eat hay, so if anyone in the house is allergic to hay, a rabbit won’t be a good pet for your family.

Hamsters
The amazingly busy and beautiful hamster is a pet that’s really fun to watch. There are 5 species available, including the Syrian, Winter White, Roborovski, Chinese and Campbell’s. Chinese hamsters are illegal to have in some states, so be sure to check it before buying. The life span of the hamsters ranges from 1 to 3years, but the Syrian could live longer. The Syrian must have its own habitat, since they fight, sometimes even to the death.
Hamsters are the busy pets and they are always on the go. It’s fun to watch them play in a play area or in their habitat. The only disadvantage is the hamster’s sleep schedule. Hamsters sleep during the day and are awake and busy at night. Hamsters are self-groomers and they usually don’t need anything except a dust bath with the special dust.

Chinchillas
I’m sure many people will agree that touching a super-soft fur of chinchilla is a pleasant sensation! Chinchillas live about 10 years old. Since chinchillas are herd animals, they must be kept as pairs (same-sex to avoid breeding). Like hamsters, chinchillas are pets more to appreciate by watching rather than interacting with them. Pay attention that handling can be difficult, and if you grab the fur wrong it can cause it to come out in clumps. Chinchillas require a dust bath several times a week. They also like to chew and they have constantly growing teeth, so to keep their teeth trimmed make sure to give them some chew items. Just like rabbits, chinchillas must eat hay, so if anyone in the house is allergic to hay, a chinchilla won’t be a good pet for your family.

Rats and Mice 
Mice and rats are small pets that simply perfect for children. An average rat’s life span is 2 to 3 years, so the time commitment is really low. Mice have less of a time commitment, because they live only 1 to 2 years. Both mice and rats are social animals and must be housed in the same-sex pairs or groups. But keep in mind that male adult mice might fight if they are housed together.

Rats are more kid-friendly pet and they enjoy interacting with their owners and love to hang out together. Their size is perfect for kids; they are not too small and not too big, but very easy to pick up and carry. Mice are smaller than rats and they don’t like interaction. They usually enjoy doing their own things and they are much more fun to watch than to hold. Both rats and mice groom themselves, so grooming for both pets is minimal. To keep the growing teeth trimmed, be sure to provide them with some chew items.

Gerbils
The playful gerbils are always busy, smart and they love to hang out with their owners. Gerbils live for about 2 to 3 years, but they pack plenty of living into that time. Gerbils are very social, that’s why it’s better to keep pairs or small groups of the same sex. With gentle handling, they learn to trust their owners and enjoy interacting. Never lift or hold a gerbil by its tail, because the tail is fragile, and the skin might come off leaving a gerbil with a naked tail.
Gerbils are self-grooming pet and they don’t require regular grooming. But, the owners have to offer a dust bath to them every week and always provide them with chew items to keep their always growing teeth trimmed.
It’s important to know that gerbils are illegal to have in a few states, so be sure to check it before buying one.

Ferrets
Finally, the ever-curious, charismatic ferret is a soft ragdoll when asleep and a furry ball of energy when awake. Generally, ferrets live for 5 to 7 years and they’re full of personality. Ferrets must be neutered or just live in same-sex pairs or groups. You can keep a ferret as a single pet only if you are very attentive owner. Keep in mind that ferrets require several hours of out-of-cage playtime. Ferrets also require very little routine grooming, occasional coat brushing or baths and regular nails trims. Moreover, ferret’s teeth should be brushed regularly.There are many different pets to choose from, and finding the one that suits your kid is key. Guinea pigs have all the fun, fur and cuteness kids love. Gold fish are beautiful and fun to feed. Ants and stick insects are entrancing and little trouble to keep. All these pets are great for kids because they don’t require a lot of up-keep. Pets are great companions for kids and a wonderful way to teach responsibility. Take a trip to the pet store and see what catches your kid’s eye. 

What do you think of my list? Which pets are great for children? Please comment below and thanks for reading!